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Humans are hardwired to search for cause and effect. Despite the fact that we know better, we often connect trouble-free lives with our own virtuous behaviour. When faced with suffering, our faith may be in jeopardy. We may wonder if we are being "punished" for our sins or whether God is trying to get us. Sometimes, we may feel the pain is unwarranted and question God.
In these three sessions, Pastor Ranjit David examines the book of Habakkuk to understand how we can grow in our trust when trials rock our boat.
Video sessions provided by RightNow Media
Introduction
Habakkuk was a man who sought answers. Troubled by what he observed, he asked questions. These questions were not merely intellectual exercises or bitter complaints. Habakkuk saw a dying world, and it broke his heart.
WHY IS THERE EVIL IN THE WORLD? Why do the wicked seem to be winning? He boldly and confidently took his complaints directly to God. And God answered…with an avalanche of proof and prediction.
Questioning God
Questions are troubling. It led Adam and Eve down the path of temptation and sin. Satan's ploy in the garden of Eden began with a question, "Did God really say that you must not eat from any tree in the garden?" (Genesis 3:1). During His last hours on earth, the Bible records Jesus' heart-rending question, "My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?"
Questioning God was Jesus' way of expressing His deepest emotions to God. His questions were a heart-wrenching cry for God's intervention.
We may never know the answers to perplexing questions, but we can rest assured that God reveals only as much as He knows we can handle. (Deuteronomy 29:29)
Waiting On God
In an instantaneous world, waiting is difficult. Waiting without knowing the whys and the hows can go against our natural inclinations. It can make us feel that we are not in control. Waiting time can feel like wasted time, but as we wait, God may be working upon us or in the hearts of other people to accomplish His final plan and purpose.
We can only wait it out in peace by trusting in God's sovereignty.
Rejoicing In God
Today, lack of joy manifests in different ways. More people are suffering from depression, anxiety, and anger than ever. Lack of joy could come from being overwhelmed and feeling we lack control over an outcome. That's why the antidote to 'joylessness' can often be faith.
Faith helps us to face the unpleasant circumstances of our lives with the confidence that God will use both the highs and lows of our lives to mold us into his likeness and to get us fit for His purpose.